4D scanning is the best opportunity to really see and bond with your baby before it is born. We use advanced imaging technology to turn a conventional ultrasound into a real 3D image of your baby, which you can see in real time (4D). You’ll see baby moving around your womb, giving you a glimpse of your baby’s personality as well as their face.
As part of your NHS treatment, you will receive ultrasound scans during your pregnancy at 12 weeks and 20 weeks. From the NHS point of view, these are purely diagnostic scans to ensure your baby is developing correctly. From the parents’ point of view, they hold far more emotional significance; they are the moment you are able to see your baby for the first time. The NHS recognise this and even let you pay for a photo during these scans.
However, the scanning equipment used by the NHS is designed only for diagnostic purposes, it does not have this important emotional connection with your baby in mind. You can only see a 2D cross-section of your baby, including their bone structure and maybe a faint outline of their features.
Our equipment is able to perform all the same diagnostic functions to allow us to perform a full peace-of-mind wellbeing scan with every visit, as well as a gender confirmation scan if you wish. But our scanning technology has been further developed to enhance the emotional bonding experience of really meeting your baby for the first time.
Advanced 3D imaging software intelligently creates light and shadow and realistic skin tones to enable you to see an incredibly detailed 3D image of your baby. And because it all happens in real time, where you are able to watch your baby move, yawn, suck their thumb and sometimes even smile, it is known as a 4D scan – the 4th dimension refers to the real-time movement.
We are able to capture these images and movement for you on a range of photos and video options,which you can share with your friends and family, and even show to the baby one day.
Yes, 4D scanning is considered to be perfectly safe.
3D and 4D scanning use the same ultrasound technology that hospitals use during normal diagnostic scans, the technology simply includes more advanced imaging software, which creates the 3D image.
This technology has been used for many years, and there is no current evidence of any biological risk to mother and foetus associated with obstetric ultrasound scans. (Obstetric ultrasound, biological effects and safety (no 160, June 2005) SOGC clinical practice guidelines from JOGC)
Despite this, we take the safety of you and your baby very seriously and see no need to take any unnecessary risks. We have adopted the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Possible) principle, which means that we have our equipment set to the lowest possible settings, whilst imposing a maximum amount of time we will expose your baby to the ultrasound. Therefore, even our longest scans will not last for more than 20 minutes.
We also follow BMUS (British Medical Ultrasound Society) guidelines for the safe use of diagnostic ultrasound equipment and we regularly update our procedures based on BMUS guidance.
For added peace-of-mind, we only use the most advanced, modern equipment available, which is regularly serviced.
If you have any doubts, please feel free to ask advice from your own doctor or midwife before visiting us.
Click here for information from Public Health England
Click here for National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
Absolutely! If you would like one of our experienced chaperones to attend your appointment with you, please let our friendly team know. Wherever possible, please let us know ahead of your appointment. However, you can request this service at any time.
Scan Baby is registered with the CQC (Care Quality Commission). The CQC make sure health and social care services provide people with safe, effective, compassionate, high-quality care.
This means that we have been rigorously tested and screened to ensure that all of our Sonographers and staff are fully qualified, that our working practices are safe and that we provide a service of exceptional quality.
Whereas many clinics will use older generation, refurbished scanners, Scan Baby use the most up to date technology.
It is the absolute top of its class for 4D baby scanning and diagnostic ultrasound. It encompasses a range of cutting edge technologies, like an Echo-enriched Beamformer and 3T Traducer Technology to capture flawless 2D, 3D and 4D images in stunning high definition.
You will be amazed at the difference in quality of even the 2D images, compared with what you might get at your 20 week NHS scan. Our software ensures the best quality images for 3D and 4D scans.
We are confident that using this cutting-edge technology is the only way to get the very best images of your baby before it is born.
Whereas many clinics will use older generation, refurbished scanners, Scan Baby uses the most up to date technology.
It is the absolute top of its class for 4D baby scanning and diagnostic ultrasound. It encompasses a range of cutting edge technologies, like an Echo-enriched Beamformer and 3T Traducer Technology to capture flawless 2D, 3D and 4D images in stunning high definition.
You will be amazed at the difference in quality of even the 2D images, compared with what you might get at your 20 week NHS scan. Our software ensures the best quality images for 3D and 4D scans.
We are confident that using this cutting-edge technology is the only way to get the very best images of your baby before it is born.
In short, no! Extensive research and studies have not shown any evidence that ultrasound, when performed by trained professionals following established guidelines, causes harm to the mother or baby. Ultrasound technology has been used in pregnancy for many years and is considered a safe and valuable tool for monitoring fetal development and ensuring the well-being of both the expectant mother and the unborn child. Sonographers, Radiographers and midwife sonographers are trained to adhere to safety guidelines to ensure the well-being of patients during ultrasound scans.
If you’re pregnant and have twins/ multiple pregnancies, a £20 surcharge is applicable and this is to extend the time of your appointment to allow for us to scan for multiple pregnancies.
Please select the twin packages when booking online or call our office and we can arrange for this.
Our Guest policy is Mum to be plus up to 6 Guests (Adult or children).
We welcome family, friends and children to share your experience. We have a large scan room with 3 screens inside.
Early Scans
Available from 6 weeks – please note from 6 up to 8 weeks, it is likely a Transvaginal (internal) scan may be required.
If you did not want an internal scan, we recommend booking from 8+ weeks.
Gender Scans
Available from 16 weeks.
4D Scans
Available from 24 weeks up to 32 weeks.
Recommended time frame for 4D scans is between 27 – 29 weeks.
For twin pregnancies, we recommend attending earlier (around 26 weeks).
Bonding Scans
Bonding scans are available from 16 weeks up to 38 weeks.
Although 4D is included in the scan, it is only a short preview. Therefore if you are looking for a more 4D focused scan, please do book one of our 4D Scan pacakages.
We want everyone to enjoy their experience with us and we do our upmost to obtain the best images of your baby as we can. There are factors that can affect image quality, such as;
Whilst we do our very best, it may not be possible to obtain the desired images. If the desired images can not be obtained, we cannot offer any refund as the scan must still be paid for as you are not only paying for images but also the private time with a highly trainer Sonographer, resources and utilities. Please see our rescan policy for the different packages we offer. Early Scans
Gender Scans
4D / VIP 4D Scans
Bonding Scans
Yes, you need to be over the age of 18 to have a scan with Scan Baby, we’ve put a mandatory field in the booking sections which asks your age and confirms we’ll be unable to scan you if you’re under the age of 18.
As a CQC regulated provider we adhere to recommendations and are only able to scan over 18s.
If baby is playing hide and seek, we will always work with you to try to get them in the right position for the best images. If this isn’t possible, we may be able to offer you a free rescan. See our Rescan Guarantee for more information.
The “Scan Baby Experience” is an exciting and immersive technology-driven experience designed to provide expectant parents with a unique opportunity to bond with their unborn baby. This cutting-edge experience goes beyond traditional 2D and 3D ultrasounds, offering a more detailed and lifelike glimpse into the womb.
Here’s what you can expect from the Scan Baby Experience:
Real-Time 4D Imaging: Unlike traditional ultrasounds, which provide static images, the Scan Baby Experience offers real-time 4D imaging. This means you can see your baby moving, kicking, and even facial expressions as they happen in the womb. It’s almost like a sneak peek into your baby’s world before they’re born.
High-Quality Imaging: The technology used in the Scan Baby Experience produces high-quality, detailed images of your baby. You’ll be able to see your baby’s features, like their tiny fingers and toes, in remarkable clarity.
Gender Reveal: Many expectant parents use the Scan Baby as an opportunity to find out the gender of their baby. This can be a special moment for parents to share with family and friends.
Family-Friendly: The experience is often designed to accommodate family and friends, allowing them to share in the excitement of seeing the baby in 4D. It can be a memorable and emotional experience for everyone involved.
Memorable Keepsakes: In addition to the live viewing, you may have the option to receive digital images and videos of your baby’s 4D ultrasound. These can be cherished keepsakes to share with your child as they grow.
Prenatal Bonding: The Scan Baby Experience can be a powerful way for expectant parents to connect with their baby on a deeper level. Seeing your baby’s movements and facial expressions can create a sense of closeness and anticipation for the arrival of your little one.
It’s important to note that the Scan Baby Experience is typically performed by trained professionals in a safe and controlled environment, ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. It’s a non-invasive procedure that adds an extra layer of joy and anticipation to the pregnancy journey for many parents-to-be.
The “Scan Baby Experience” is an exciting and immersive technology-driven experience designed to provide expectant parents with a unique opportunity to bond with their unborn baby. This cutting-edge experience goes beyond traditional 2D and 3D ultrasounds, offering a more detailed and lifelike glimpse into the womb.
Here’s what you can expect from the Scan Baby Experience:
Real-Time 4D Imaging: Unlike traditional ultrasounds, which provide static images, the Scan Baby Experience offers real-time 4D imaging. This means you can see your baby moving, kicking, and even facial expressions as they happen in the womb. It’s almost like a sneak peek into your baby’s world before they’re born.
High-Quality Imaging: The technology used in the Scan Baby Experience produces high-quality, detailed images of your baby. You’ll be able to see your baby’s features, like their tiny fingers and toes, in remarkable clarity.
Gender Reveal: Many expectant parents use the Scan Baby Experience as an opportunity to find out the gender of their baby. This can be a special moment for parents to share with family and friends.
Family-Friendly: The experience is often designed to accommodate family and friends, allowing them to share in the excitement of seeing the baby in 4D. It can be a memorable and emotional experience for everyone involved.
Memorable Keepsakes: In addition to the live viewing, you may have the option to receive digital images and videos of your baby’s 4D ultrasound. These can be cherished keepsakes to share with your child as they grow.
Prenatal Bonding: The Scan Baby Experience can be a powerful way for expectant parents to connect with their baby on a deeper level. Seeing your baby’s movements and facial expressions can create a sense of closeness and anticipation for the arrival of your little one.
It’s important to note that the Scan Baby Experience is typically performed by trained professionals in a safe and controlled environment, ensuring the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. It’s a non-invasive procedure that adds an extra layer of joy and anticipation to the pregnancy journey for many parents-to-be.
When you contact us to book your appointment we will confirm some details, like how far along your pregnancy you are.
We recommend that you eat 1-2 hrs before the scan. Complimentary drinks are available whilst you wait – just ask a member of our team. The small sugar boost encourages your baby to be more active for the scan.
Ensure you remain well hydrated throughout your pregnancy, but especially for 5 days before your scan for the very best results. For scans at under 20 weeks, a full bladder is helpful.
Please ensure you have your antenatal record book to hand if you have been given it, as you will need to bring this to your scan.
Aim to arrive a few minutes prior to your scheduled appointment so that we can get your paperwork out of the way and maximise the time you can spend with your baby. If you are late, we will do our best to fit you in, but cannot guarantee that you will get the full scan time.
1. Paperwork
When you are first welcomed into the Scan Baby clinic, we will first ask for your antenatal records and ask you to complete a short consent form explaining that the scan is purely for bonding and not medical purposes.
2. Getting comfortable
When you are shown into the scanning room, our experienced Sonographer will put you at ease, explain the scanning process to you and make you and any guests feel comfortable before commencing the scan. There is plenty of space for guests in our clinics, so feel free to invite friends and family to share the experience.
3. Wellbeing scan
All of our packages start with a basic wellbeing scan, where we will check your baby’s development (the ‘weights & dates’), position and heartbeat. This scan does not replace your 12 week dating scan or your 20 week anomaly scan, so it is important that you keep all of your appointments with your Midwife. However, it is only sensible to make these checks while we have the opportunity.
4. Gender confirmation and 2D photos
Once these checks have been made, we will check the gender if you wish and the 2D photos will be taken. If you don’t want to know, then we will do our best to make sure it remains a surprise.
5. Making sure the baby is ready
If your baby is feeling camera shy, we will not simply ‘make do’. We may send you for a little walk around the clinic or outside, or will try again on another day.
6. The Scan Baby Experience
Once your baby is in the perfect position, we commence with the Scan Baby Experience, where we will switch the monitor to stunning 4D, and you, like many parents before you. If you have chosen a package that includes 3D photos and 4D video, then we will start recording straight away and capture as much as possible. Depending on the package you have chosen, you may then have up to 20 minutes to study your baby’s face and get to know their quirks and individual mannerisms.
7. Choosing your images
Our team will select the best images to print for you after your scan. This is also your opportunity purchase any extras that are not included in your package, like extra prints, a download of all the images or video, heartbeat bears or even a new-born photo shoot. Our lovely Receptionist will talk you through your options.
We only hire qualified and experienced Sonographers who will do their very best to obtain great images for you. However, certain factors, like the position of the placenta, a camera-shy baby, or even Mum’s BMI, can make it unavoidably difficult to obtain the perfect picture.
In these cases, we will not simply settle for a bad picture. We are flexible and have several options. We might send you for a walk around the clinic or offer you a drink to wake the baby up.
If this doesn’t work, we can invite you back for another appointment at no extra cost. This offer is limited to just one extra appointment per customer and is at the discretion of the Sonographer. In this scenario, we will save the images from both appointments to ensure you leave with the best possible 3D images of your baby.
The only scan that specifically looks for anomalies is the conventional scan performed by the NHS at around 20 weeks into your pregnancy. Your 4D scan is a self-elective, non-diagnostic scan.
It is important to note that your scan with us is a social scan only and that finding anomalies is not the primary purpose. If an anomaly is later found that was not originally spotted during your scan with us, we cannot be held responsible.
However, we believe it would be remiss of us to not take the opportunity to check on your baby’s development, so we include a wellbeing scan with every appointment. This scan is not as comprehensive as the 20-week scan and should not be considered a replacement. We will check certain vital signs, such as the baby’s position, movement, heartbeat and sometimes measurements.
If we do discover anything that concerns us during this scan, our Sonographers are very experienced and are able to deal with any issues with sensitivity and professionalism. Anything we might find will have to be confirmed by the NHS, we will advise you about the next steps following the scan. This will be to either call your GP or your midwife (if you have one at that point) to arrange a referral to the Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit at hospital. Before you leave we will provide you with a scan report and a plan of where and what to do next. Scan images are available on request from Health Care Professionals with your consent.
They will not let you leave without a report, any relevant images, and a plan of where to go and what to do next.
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